NODE Nano

The first thing you notice: the NODE Nano is tiny. It weighs just 570 grams — less than most routers. But inside this laconic matte case beats the heart of the flagship line. The NODE Nano shares with the older NODE the same quad-core ARM Cortex A53 processor and the same ESS Sabre DAC — without any discounts for “budget”.

The heart of the sound is the flagship ESS SABRE DAC with Hyperstream IV technology, which provides impressive dynamics and extremely low distortion. Support for resolutions up to 24-bit / 192 kHz guarantees crystal clarity in the reproduction of any content — from compressed AAC to full-weight FLAC and MQA.

The BluOS platform is something that is really worth paying for. It integrates over 23 streaming music services, including Amazon Music, Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz and even Pandora. It is worth noting the support for Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Alexa voice control and Roon Ready certification. All this is in one application, without unnecessary settings.

For wireless connection there is Bluetooth 5.2 with support for the aptX Adaptive codec, and for wired connection there is Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi. On the back panel there are RCA outputs, coaxial, optical, USB-A and a USB-C power port. Connect to an amplifier, active speakers or DAC - NODE Nano fits into any system.

The BluOS platform supports up to 64 players simultaneously - all of them broadcast audio in 24-bit Hi-Res format. Add another NODE Nano to another room or combine with Bluesound wireless speakers - and the music will fill the whole house, without losing any detail or mood.

The NODE Nano is a great choice if you already have a good amplifier or powered speakers and want to finally get rid of Bluetooth dongles and cheap streamers. It sounds much better for its price, and the BluOS app makes controlling your music a real pleasure.